Lead-Based Paint Inspections

Lead-based paint was used throughout New Jersey prior to 1978 when the use of lead in paint was banned. Lead was used in paint for improved durability, pigment and a drying agent. Lead-based paint was more widely used in homes prior to 1950 – most homes built before 1950 have some lead-based paint unless fully renovated.

Deteriorated paint can lead to lead hazards. Although lead exposure in children can be from eating paint chips, the primary source of lead exposure is from lead dust. Lead dust most often accumulates from lead-based painted friction surfaces like doors rubbing against door jambs and window sashes rubbing in the frame.

Lead exposure in children can lead to permanent nervous system damage. Even at low levels, lead exposure in children can slow a child’s development, causing learning or behavioral problems. More information on the effects of lead can be found here: https://www.epa.gov/lead

Lead inspections can include testing surfaces to determine if and where layers of paint contain lead, and/or risk assessment to collect dust or soil to determine if lead hazards exist. All paint in homes built before 1978 should be kept in good condition and all dust regularly cleaned to prevent hazardous conditions.

Lead Inspection Services

Full Lead-Based Paint Inspection

The inspector will use an X-ray Florescence Device (XRF) to test all painted wall components throughout the home to document any surfaces coated with a lead-based paint. Any areas of lead-based paint deterioration will be noted with recommendations for remedial actions. A total of 200-300 samples are taken in most homes. A full report will be issued with the findings.

If the lead inspection is being performed on a rental property, and if no interior surfaces are found to have lead-based paint present, a “lead-free” certificate can be issued to exempt the rental unit from further periodic “lead-safe” inspections. If lead-based paint is discovered but all observed to be intact, a “lead-safe” certificate can be issued. “Lead-safe” certificates are valid for 2 years.

Limited Lead-Based Paint Screening

If purchasing a home and don’t want the expense of a full lead-based paint inspection, we offer a Limited Lead-Based paint Screening. The Limited Lead-Based Paint Screening includes 20 surface samples of random or deteriorated painted surfaces to identify lead-based paint and 3 dust wipe samples to identify lead hazards.

The inspector will use an X-ray Florescence Device (XRF) to test 20 painted wall components throughout the home to document these surfaces coated with a lead-based paint. Any areas of lead-based paint deterioration will be noted with recommendations for remedial actions. The inspector will then take 3 composite dust wipe samples of floors, window sills, and a field blank to identify lead dust hazards. These samples are sent to a laboratory for analysis. A report will be issued with the findings

Rental "Lead-Safe" Inspection

All rental units in New Jersey built before 1978 (unless certified to be “lead-free”) are required to have periodic “lead-safe” inspections. This inspection can be performed by the municipality for a fee or by a NJ Lead Inspector/Risk Assessor of your choosing. Many landlords prefer to choose their own inspector.

This inspection includes a visual assessment of all painted surfaces to identify any areas of paint deterioration. All surfaces have to be assumed to be lead-based paint. The inspector will then look for dust accumulation on flat surfaces including floors, window sills, and on tops of door and window trim. Prior to the inspection, a full cleaning and paint touchup is recommended to prevent unnecessary failure.

Some municipalities require dust wipe sampling in addition to the visual inspection. Please confirm with your township if dust wipe samples are required and refer to this list for more information:

https://www.nj.gov/dca/divisions/codes/publications/pdf_lead/doh_lead_data_insp.pdf

Lead Inspection Pricing

  • Full Lead Inspection
    $695
    add $10 per additional 100 sf over 1500 SF.

    $100 discount if bundled with a full home inspection

  • Limited Lead Screening
    $395
    $100 discount if bundled with a full home inspection
  • Rental "Lead-Safe" Inspection
    $295
    add $50 per additional dwelling unit.

    $50 discount if bundled with a full home inspection.

    add $25 per dust wipe, minimum 3 wipes.

Please call, text, or email for stand-alone lead inspections – online scheduling not available.

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